PULLMAN, Wash. — Washington State University is offering a first-of-its-kind certificate program for high school students deciding if they want to pursue a degree and career in veterinary medicine.
This program was just launched and is known as the Junior Veterinary Scribe Certificate. It is designed to prepare high school graduates for an entry-level position in the veterinary field!
When accepted into the program, you will work in various positions including a scribe or other advanced options for whose who have already worked in a clinic.
“The Junior Veterinary Scribe Certificate is a unique opportunity that equips students with a solid foundation and the essential skills needed for a career in veterinary medicine,” Program Administrative Manager Veronica Sweeney said. “The certificate is great for students who are thinking about veterinary medicine as a career path.”
There are 10 online modules for the program. These cover topics ranging from veterinary scribing, including medical records and terminology, anatomy, physiology, diagnostic testing, basic pharmacy, professionalism and many more!
This program is a great opportunity for students to get a sense of the veterinary field and see if it is something they could pursue long-term! “Many high school students are uncertain about their career paths after graduation,” Sweeney said. “Our program offers them a unique introduction to the animal science field and helps them make informed decisions about their future.”
For high school graduates wanting to pursue a degree in animal science or a related field, this Junior Veterinary Scribe Certificate would give them a foot in the door. They will an advantage by covering topics that will be similar to what they will learn during their courses in veterinary technician programs, pre-veterinary studies, and other biology-related fields.
This certificate doesn't guarantee an acceptance into a veterinary school, but it does enhance the applicants' profile with the unique educational experience.
This program varies in length, depending on the student's educational background. It can vary between 90 to 130 hours, but students are allowed six months to finish the course!
The cost of the program is $500, if a graduate is still a minor when enrolling in the program, they will need parental consent. For more information about this certificate and the WSU veterinary program, use this link!
